Alabama Unemployment Benefits (2026): Weekly Amount, Duration & Calculator
As of January 1, 2026, unemployment benefits in Alabama range from $45 to $275 per week, payable for 14 weeks. Your weekly benefit amount is 1/26 of the average of your two highest quarters.
Base entitlement; extra weeks can apply depending on base-period wages and the state unemployment rate.
Estimate your weekly benefit
How Alabama calculates your benefit
Weekly benefit amount: 1/26 of the average of your two highest quarters.
To qualify (earnings requirement): Base-period wages of at least 1½ times your high-quarter wages. You must also be unemployed through no fault of your own, and be able to work, available for work, and actively seeking work.
Total benefits on the claim: The lesser of ¼ of base-period wages or 14 × WBA.
Working part-time: the Alabama partial-benefit rule
If you work reduced hours, Alabama disregards part of your earnings before reducing your check: One-third of your weekly benefit amount. Use the calculator to see what a part-time week would pay.
How Alabama compares
Alabama's $275 maximum ranks #50 of 53 U.S. jurisdictions. The highest maximums nationally:
- Washington — up to $1,152/week
- Massachusetts — up to $1,105/week
- New Jersey — up to $905/week
- Oregon — up to $872/week
- New York — up to $869/week
See the full state-by-state table.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum unemployment benefit in Alabama?
The maximum weekly benefit amount in Alabama is $275 as of January 1, 2026, payable for 14 weeks.
How is the weekly benefit calculated in Alabama?
1/26 of the average of your two highest quarters. The result is capped between $45 and $275 per week.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in Alabama?
Yes, if you earn less than your weekly benefit amount and remain otherwise eligible. Alabama disregards the following before reducing your check: One-third of your weekly benefit amount.
Does severance affect unemployment in Alabama?
It depends on how the severance is characterized and paid. Some states delay or reduce benefits during weeks covered by severance or wages in lieu of notice; others do not. Report any severance when you file and let the agency make the determination — see our severance guide for how this generally works.
How long do unemployment benefits last in Alabama?
Between 14 and 14 weeks of regular benefits, depending on your earnings history and the state unemployment rate.